The lecture will provide attendees with research-based resources they need to make informed decisions about their food system and what they choose to eat.

Among the subjects covered will be:

n What is a genetically modified organism (GMO)?

n How do you make a GMO?

n GMOs in our food system

n Potential benefits/concerns with GMOs

The intent of this talk is to inform, rather than persuade. It is designed for anyone with an interest in the topic, or who is interested in learning more about food systems.

The lecturer, Dr. Gail Langellotto, earned her bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Maryland. Currently, she is an assistant professor of horticulture at OSU, where she also serves as the statewide coordinator of the OSU Extension Master Gardener Program.

Langellotto’s research and Extension program is diverse, and includes: 1) research on how gardening practices impact bees; 2) research on whether gardening increases vegetable consumption and/or science achievement; 3) Extension programs on pesticide reduction and alternative forms of pest control in gardens and 4) developing curricula to teach children healthy eating via gardening.

She is also part of an international team of researchers who are looking at the potential impacts that growing genetically modified rice in Vietnam might have regional biodiversity.

There will be no charge; just show up. Food will be available by the Four and Twenty Blackbirds food cart.